Things to Do in Kashmir in Winter 2026: Snow, Skiing & What’s Actually Open

Winter Kashmir is one of India’s most underrated travel experiences. Tourist crowds thin dramatically, the valley wears snow on every rooftop and Chinar branch, and Gulmarg becomes a proper ski resort with some of the best off-piste terrain in Asia. Quieter, more atmospheric, and in its own way more beautiful than the summer version.

1. Skiing & Snow Sports at Gulmarg

Gulmarg is India’s premier ski resort at 2,650 m, receiving 4–5 metres of snowfall between December and March. The Gulmarg Gondola operates year-round (weather permitting): Phase 1 to Kongdoori (2,600 m) and Phase 2 to Apharwat Peak (3,980 m). Ski equipment rental: ₹500–800/day; instructors: ₹800–1,500 for a half-day lesson. For non-skiers, sledging (₹200–400/run) and snow scooters (₹800–1,200/15 min) are popular. Heli-skiing is available for experienced skiers.

2. Shikara Ride on Frozen Dal Lake

Dal Lake partially or fully freezes in January–February. A morning Shikara ride in winter is completely different from the summer version — mist hangs over still water, the ghats are quiet, snow-dusted mountains frame the lake. Houseboats operate year-round; many are heated with traditional kangri (clay firepots) or wood-burning stoves.

3. Old Srinagar: Shrines, Bazaars & Wazwan Dinners

Winter is the best time to explore old Srinagar without crowds. Jama Masjid, Shah-i-Hamdan shrine, and Hazratbal all take on a different quality in winter light. The bazaars around Lal Chowk are full of seasonal goods — kangri, dry fruits, saffron, and handknitted woollens. A wazwan dinner (rogan josh, yakhni, tabak maaz, gushtaba) is best eaten in winter when the rich meat dishes make perfect sense.

4. Pahalgam in Winter

Pahalgam in winter is dramatically quieter than summer. The Betaab Valley road may be accessible (check with your operator), and the town itself, the Lidder River, and the surrounding pine forests under snow are beautiful. Chandanwari road is typically closed. Pahalgam works well as a 1-night add-on to a Gulmarg-focused winter trip.

5. Doodhpathri in Winter

Doodhpathri in winter is a vast, untouched snowfield with almost no other visitors. The road from Srinagar (42 km) is usually passable with snow chains or 4WD — check road conditions with your operator. On a good day: pristine deep snow, silence, and views of surrounding peaks.

What’s Open & Closed in Winter

Winter Kashmir Package — Sample Itinerary (4N 5D)

What to Pack for Winter Kashmir

Srinagar in Dec–Feb: −2°C to 6°C days, −8°C to −12°C nights. Gulmarg: −15°C or colder. Pack: thermal base layers, down jacket (not a fleece), waterproof outer layer, snow boots with grip, wool gloves, balaclava, and sunscreen (UV at altitude is intense even in winter).

Winter Kashmir Package Prices

Winter packages (outside Christmas/New Year peak) are 10–20% cheaper than peak summer rates. A standard 4N 5D winter package costs ₹20,000–32,000 per person (twin sharing), including houseboat, hotels, cab, and breakfast. Gulmarg Gondola and snow activities are additional. Christmas week (Dec 24–Jan 1) carries a 30–40% premium — book early.